How you can help the visually impaired in Florida stay safe and independent

(BPT) – Close your eyes and imagine what it’s like to wake up and move throughout your day not being able to see. How would it feel walking through your neighborhood? Crossing the street? Going to work? It’s difficult to even imagine how this would feel, but for people who are blind and visually impaired, this experience — and the associated concerns about safety and independence — is their reality.October is an important month for communities to raise awareness about the lives and experiences of blind and visually impaired people. October is National Disability Employment and Awareness Month. And each year, people recognize national White Cane Awareness Day.These all are important times to appreciate the abilities, capabilities and achievements of people who are blind and visually impaired. Acknowledgement of the White Cane, as a symbol of independence for the blind, enables blind and visually impaired Floridians to live, work and play on their own terms.Over the next 30 years, the number of blind or visually impaired people in Florida is expected to double, from about 500,000 to 1 million. Both young and old can experience blindness at any time. Causes for visual impairment are diverse, including stroke, diabetes, accidents and congenital diseases.You can support and empower blind and visually impaired people by learning more about the services and statutes that protect these Floridians. Take action now and discover what you can do to help your neighbors live well, remain independent and safely navigate the world alongside you.The law says stop for blind pedestriansDid you know that failing to stop for a pedestrian using a white cane or accompanied by a service animal is a violation of Florida Law? In order for the blind and visually impaired to maintain an independent lifestyle, they need the guarantee of safety when traveling. That’s where all Floridians have a part to play.Florida statute 316.1301 explicitly protects blind and visually impaired pedestrians. It states that a driver must not only yield to these pedestrians, but they should also bring their vehicle to a complete stop and take necessary precautions to avoid causing injury. Failure to do so is a crime.How do you recognize a blind or visually impaired pedestrian? And what should you do to avoid causing injury? Here are three simple steps everyone can follow:1. Be alertWatch for pedestrians using a white cane or a service animal. Always yield to these pedestrians and be patient.2. Be mindfulSometimes, honking can be useful for communicating. This is never the case for blind and visually impaired pedestrians, however. These pedestrians won’t be able to see why you’re honking, and they won’t know if you’re saying it’s safe or unsafe to walk.3. Be patientCalling out that it’s safe to cross the street is also not a good idea because it can be disorienting. The best thing you can do for a visually impaired pedestrian is remain quiet and be patient. Let them listen to the traffic signal and focus on the cues they’re receiving from their cane or service animal.You can make a difference by being aware of the blind and visually impaired in your community and following safety steps and best practices while on the road and beyond.Free Florida services assist and empowerIf you know someone who is blind or visually impaired, or you are yourself, it’s important to know that there are special resources dedicated to help you thrive in all aspects of life. According to the Director of The Florida Division of Blind Services, Robert Doyle, there are many services to help, including:Job placement and retentionOn-the-job trainingAssistive technologyCareer counseling and guidanceTraining for independent living skillsThese services are free and designed to be as easily accessible as possible. There are Florida Division of Blind Services locations throughout the state, and they can be contacted any time by visiting BlindJobsFL.com.